The best smart home devices for 2026

A smart home device is any piece of hardware that connects to your Wi-Fi network, allowing you to control or automate home functions through a smartphone app, voice command, or automated schedule. These devices serve as the foundation for modern home management, ranging from simple power switches to complex security systems.

According to industry research, the global smart home market is projected to reach over $200 billion by 2028, driven by increased adoption of voice assistants and energy-efficient automation (Statista). Selecting the right device requires balancing feature sets, platform compatibility, and long-term subscription costs.

Which smart speaker offers the best audio performance?

The Amazon Echo Studio (2025 model) is currently the top-performing smart speaker for audio quality, featuring advanced spatial audio capabilities and room-sensing technology. It provides a significant upgrade over standard smart speakers by automatically calibrating its output to the acoustics of your room, ensuring balanced sound regardless of placement.